Twice A Week Plain Dealer

LET
THE PEOPLE
ELECT THE SENATORS

President Johnson, in 1866, recommended a constitutional amendment providing for the election of United States senator by direct vote of the people, but his recommendation met with no response. About twelve years later General Weaver, then a member of congress, tried to secure the passage of a resolution submitting an amendment, but his efforts were futile. In 1892, the resolution recommended by President Johnson and urged by Congressman Weaver finally passed the house of representatives, but it has not yet reached a vote in the senate. And now after eight years more of public discussion, the proposition for the first time receives the endorsement of the national convention of one of the great parties.

If the fusion forces win a victory this fall, we shall see this reform accomplished before the next presidential election, and with its accomplishment, the people will find it easier to secure any remedial legislation which they may desire.

Great problems are solved slowly, but struggling humanity marches on, step by step, content if at each nightfall it can pitch its tent on a little higher ground.

WILLIAM JENNINGS BRYAN.